The REDUce 2 study, a pioneering research initiative aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with advanced chronic liver disease, has successfully enrolled its 148th participant. This significant milestone brings the study closer to its goal of recruiting 310 participants.
Under the leadership of Professor Sumita Verma, Consultant Hepatologist at UHSussex and Professor of Hepatology at Brighton and Sussex Medical School, the trial is being conducted across more than 30 sites in England, Wales, and Scotland. The study seeks to generate high-quality evidence to enhance palliative care for this vulnerable patient group.
Professor Verma highlighted the challenges faced by patients with advanced chronic liver disease, particularly the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites. “Many of these patients do not receive liver transplants or adequate palliative care,” she explained. “Our study is investigating whether long-term abdominal drains can better manage this fluid buildup.”
The REDUce 2 study is exploring whether long-term abdominal drains can reduce hospital visits and allow patients to remain at home, thereby improving their quality of life. UHSussex is collaborating with the Brighton and Sussex Clinical Trials Unit and the Joint Clinical Research Office at the University of Sussex on this project.
Participants in the study are assigned to either a standard drain, which requires regular hospital visits, or a long-term drain that can be managed at home. Both groups receive fortnightly home visits from research teams to monitor symptoms, quality of life, and any issues with the drains.
Additionally, all participants are referred to a palliative care team for holistic support, and caregivers are encouraged to be involved.
Professor Verma expressed hope that the REDUce 2 trial will lead to the development of comprehensive guidelines for personalised ascites management as patients approach the end of life. The study uses a randomisation scheme to determine which patients receive the long-term drain versus the hospital drain. However, at the end of the three-month study, those who received the hospital drain can opt for the long-term drain.
Patients interested in participating in the study are encouraged to contact their local consultants. This research aims to significantly improve the lives of patients and their caregivers affected by advanced chronic liver disease.